2 Timothy
The first design of this epistle seems to have been, to apprize Timothy of what had occurred
during the imprisonment of the apostle, and to request him to come to Rome. But being uncertain
whether he should be suffered to live to see him, Paul gives a variety of advices and encouragements,
for the faithful discharge of his ministerial duties. As this was a private epistle written to St. Paul's
most intimate friend, under the miseries of imprisonment, and in the near prospect of death, it shows
the temper and character of the apostle, and contains convincing proofs that he sincerely believed
the doctrines he preached.
Chapter 1
Chapter Outline
Paul expresses great affection for Timothy. (1–5)
Exhorts him to improve his spiritual gifts. (6–14)
Tells of many who basely deserted him; but (15–18)
speaks with affection of Onesiphorus.Verses 1–5
The promise of eternal life to believers in Christ Jesus, is the leading subject of ministers who
are employed according to the will of God. The blessings here named, are the best we can ask for
our beloved friends, that they may have peace with God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
Whatever good we do, God must have the glory. True believers have in every age the same religion
as to substance. Their faith is unfeigned; it will stand the trial, and it dwells in them as a living
principle. Thus pious women may take encouragement from the success of Lois and Eunice with
Timothy, who proved so excellent and useful a minister. Some of the most worthy and valuable
ministers the church of Christ has been favoured with, have had to bless God for early religious
impressions made upon their minds by the teaching of their mothers or other female relatives.
Verses 6–14
God has not given us the spirit of fear, but the spirit of power, of courage and resolution, to
meet difficulties and dangers; the spirit of love to him, which will carry us through opposition. And
the spirit of a sound mind, quietness of mind. The Holy Spirit is not the author of a timid or cowardly
disposition, or of slavish fears. We are likely to bear afflictions well, when we have strength and
power from God to enable us to bear them. As is usual with Paul, when he mentions Christ and his
redemption, he enlarges upon them; so full was he of that which is all our salvation, and ought to
be all our desire. The call of the gospel is a holy call, making holy. Salvation is of free grace. This
is said to be given us before the world began, that is, in the purpose of God from all eternity; in
Christ Jesus, for all the gifts that come from God to sinful man, come in and through Christ Jesus